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Synectics MD, Carol Shanahan, recognised for outstanding contribution

Carol Shanahan of Synectics Solutions, a leading-edge fraud detection and data solutions provider, has been selected as one of seven finalists in the Businesswoman of the Year awards taking place at the Birmingham Hilton this Friday 7th October.

Carol is Managing Director of Synectics Solutions, which works to change the face of fraud detection and prevention globally, and has grown to employ over 330 people locally in Stoke-on-Trent.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to have been shortlisted in the Businesswoman of the Year awards,” explained Carol. “My husband and I set up Synectics Solutions with our business partner almost 25 years ago, growing it to a team of over 330 people today. We’re doing phenomenally well and are working with many large corporations to change the face of fraud detection and prevention globally.

“This year our company was crowned Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year 2016, and reached The Times’ Top 100 for Export Growth, so it’s a tremendously exciting time for us all.”

Despite her success, Carol has never lost sight of the importance of giving back to the local community, having chosen to base the business close to her roots, initially in Newcastle under Lyme and now in Stoke-on-Trent, rather than take the decision to relocate to more fashionable areas of Birmingham or Manchester as the company has grown.

Carol’s passion for the local area has also meant she has invested a great deal of her time and expertise with a number of charities and local development organisations, helping to improve and develop the community, especially in Burslem. She is also a committed fan of Port Vale Football Club.

“Even if I don’t pick up the top gong on the night, I’m really proud to have made it this far and be recognised in this way amongst many other fantastic businesswomen,” she added. “I’m very much looking forward to the event this Friday and in celebrating the successes of women in business.”

Carol’s commitment to giving something back to the community played a significant role in her shortlisting, which has also seen her develop her garden for the National Gardening Scheme which offers individuals private viewings, with all proceeds going to local hospices.